If you’re concerned about unauthorized access to your Reddit account—or you simply haven’t updated your credentials recently—it is important to change your password correctly. This involves more than just creating a new password; you should also sign out of active sessions on all devices, verify and update your recovery information, and enable stronger security measures such as two-factor authentication. By following the specific steps in order, you can reduce the risk of account compromise and maintain better control over your Reddit account.
Understanding Reddit Account Security Basics
Before changing your Reddit password, it’s useful to understand the main elements of account security. Use a strong, unique password that’s at least 16–18 characters long and includes a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
Avoid reusing passwords from other websites, as a breach on one service can expose your Reddit account if the same password is used.
Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an additional layer of protection by requiring a second verification step beyond your password. This reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if your password is obtained by someone else.
It is also advisable to review your account activity and connected devices on a regular basis. Look for logins from unfamiliar locations, devices, or times. If you’re concerned about overall privacy, you can also periodically review Reddit’s privacy settings to limit how visible your profile and activity are.
If you notice anything suspicious, change your password immediately, revoke access for unknown devices or third‑party apps, and review your security settings.
Steps to Change Your Reddit Password When Logged In
For additional security, go to the security section and choose the option to log out of all devices.
This ensures that any existing sessions are ended and that only users who sign in again with the new password can access the account.
Resetting a Forgotten Reddit Password
If you have forgotten your Reddit password and can’t log in, go to the Reddit login page and select “Forgot your password?” under the Log In button.
On the password reset page, enter your Reddit username and the email address associated with your account, then submit the form.
Check the inbox for that email address for a message from Reddit containing a password reset link. Open the email and follow the link, which will direct you to a secure page where you can set a new password.
Choose a strong, unique password that uses a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
After resetting your password and signing in, consider enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) in your account settings.
2FA adds an additional verification step, which can improve the overall security of your Reddit account.
Updating Your Reddit Email for Account Recovery
Although it only takes a moment, updating the email linked to your Reddit account is an important step for protecting your account and maintaining access to recovery options.
To begin, log in, click your username in the top-right corner, and select User settings.
Under the Account tab, locate your current email address and select Change. Enter the new email address you want to use, then enter your current Reddit password to verify your identity. Click Save email to submit the change.
Reddit will send a confirmation message to the new address. Open that email and follow the instructions to verify the change.
Completing this step promptly helps ensure you continue to receive security alerts and password reset emails if you ever need to regain access to your account.
Strengthening Your Account With Two-Factor Authentication
While a strong password helps protect your Reddit account, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an additional layer of security against unauthorized access.
With 2FA, you must provide both your password and a time‑limited code generated on your phone or another trusted device. This makes it more difficult for someone to access your account using only a stolen or guessed password.
To enable 2FA, go to your Reddit account settings, open the security or privacy section, and follow the instructions to connect an authentication app or phone number.
Store the backup codes Reddit provides in a secure location so you can regain access if you lose your device. If you change phones, it’s advisable to transfer your authenticator or, if necessary, temporarily disable 2FA and then re‑enable it on the new device, following Reddit’s current guidance.
Best Practices to Keep Your Reddit Account Secure
To keep your Reddit account secure, focus on a few key practices. Use a strong, unique password of at least 18 characters that includes a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, and avoid reusing this password on other sites.
Enable two-factor authentication so that accessing your account requires both your password and an additional verification step, reducing the impact of a stolen or guessed password.
Consider updating your password periodically to limit long-term exposure if your credentials are ever compromised.
A reputable password manager can help generate and store complex passwords securely, reducing the risk of weak or reused passwords.
After changing your Reddit password, log out of all devices to ensure any existing unauthorized sessions are closed.
Conclusion
You now have the key steps needed to improve the security of your Reddit account. By changing your password regularly, resetting it when necessary, and keeping your email address current, you reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access. Enabling two-factor authentication adds an additional layer of protection beyond your password. Periodically reviewing your security and privacy settings helps ensure that your account remains under your control and that you can continue using Reddit with a lower risk of security issues.
